Community Pharmacy England begins early engagement for 2027 elections
Community Pharmacy England is beginning early engagement activity to support preparation for the next round of elections to its Committee, due to take place in autumn 2026 for the 2027–2031 term.
As part of this, we will shortly write to pharmacy owners in the ‘10+ multiple (non-CCA)’ category, asking them to review their NHS-held details and confirm whether they meet the criteria for this electoral group.
Supporting a robust and accurate election process
This work is designed to ensure that the elections are underpinned by accurate and up-to-date ownership information, helping to support:
- Effective planning for committee composition to reflect sector ownership
- A clear and transparent election process
- Appropriate representation across contractor groupings
Pharmacy owners in the 10+ multiple (non-CCA) category will be asked to declare any additional pharmacies they own or control, where these may not be fully reflected in existing NHS records.
Ensuring NHS ownership data is accurate
A key part of the election process is the use of NHS data to help determine the main parts of the sector and manage electoral entitlements.
Community Pharmacy England uses NHS datasets, including NHS Parent Organisation Data, to support the administration of elections. It is therefore important that pharmacy ownership records are accurate and up to date.
All pharmacy owners are encouraged to check that their NHS Parent Organisation Code (POC) is correctly linked to their organisation’s pharmacies. This helps ensure that businesses are appropriately recognised within electoral categories and supports the smooth running of pharmacy representative elections.
Working with LPCs to support local election planning
Alongside this, Community Pharmacy England is working closely with LPCs to support preparation for their own elections, also due to start in autumn 2026 for the 2027–2031 term. Updated LPC election guidance is currently in development and is planned for publication by July 2026.
As part of this approach, we are also ensuring that national pharmacy bodies are sighted on this work.
James Wood, Director of Member and LPC Support at Community Pharmacy England, said:
“With a new term of office for both Community Pharmacy England and LPCs beginning on 1st April 2027, now is the time to start preparing as a sector.
The strength and success of community pharmacy representation depends on diverse, passionate and committed leaders who are willing to step forward to govern, advise and shape our work at both national and local levels.
I would encourage pharmacy owners and colleagues across the sector to begin thinking now about the upcoming elections, whether that’s considering standing themselves or supporting others to do so. Serving on an LPC or the national committee is a valuable opportunity to influence the future of community pharmacy and ensure the sector’s voice is heard clearly and effectively.”
Further information about the role of a Community Pharmacy England Committee Member is available here.
